We are very excited to once again offer the Taiwanese ladyslipper orchid, Cypripedium formosanum, which is unfortunately now endangered in the wild. Cypripedium formosanum naturally occurs in moist, but well-draining, alkaline soils, often growing in several hours of full sun in Taiwan's central mountains, between 7,000'-9,000' elevation. Cypripedium formosanum is similar in appearance to its closest relative, Cypripedium japonicum, both with spectacular, heavily pleated, green leaves, which resemble a Japanese hand fan opened horizontally atop 6" tall stems. Held just above the foliage is a scrumptious white flower with burgundy speckled pouches. As you can imagine, our supply of seed-propagated, flowering-sized plants is limited... only for very serious gardeners and plant collectors. Moist, but well-drained, highly organic soils are needed. As with all rare plants, help us conserve by propagating and sharing. Maintenance: Lady slipper orchids are maintenance free in the garden once they are established in the correct growing conditions. Growing Conditions: Cypripedium prefer soils that are very well drained, and rich in compost. In containers, we like to add Permatill (popped slate) or a Pumice like product. Average moisture levels are great, but be certain soils do not remain waterlogged. Lady slipper orchids are woodland plants, and most species do not have any sun tolerance. We have found that light, high shade is ideal. Planting is critical, as roots must be spread horizontally just below the soil surface and not stuck deep in the ground as is the case with virtually all other plants. The growth bud should be planted just below the soil surface. Natural Impacts: Bees are the primary pollinators for lady slipper orchids, since orchids have a complex pollination mechanism built into the flowers.
